Some of the most meaningful events start small and grow organically, which is exactly what happened with Mental Awakening. What began in 2019 as a backyard memorial for Cole Hagood, who died by suicide, has evolved into a full weekend festival that draws thousands while keeping mental health and suicide prevention at its core.
Michael Robertson and friends started with about 300 crawfish and a bunch of musicians in a backyard. Now the festival takes over Westside Motor Lounge for two days, featuring live music, local artists, and what organizers call "community spirit." But the mission hasn't changed – it's still about creating space to talk about mental health in a way that feels natural rather than clinical.
The timing and location make sense. Westside Motor Lounge has become a hub for music and community events that matter, and mental health conversations are finally getting the attention they deserve. Having this kind of festival in Atlanta, where the music scene is so tied to community identity, creates a model for how entertainment and advocacy can work together effectively.